As well as word-of-mouth and online reviews, there all kinds of competitions and awards that drinks brands seek out to boost their product, but are any more coveted than the Royal Warrant?
When King Charles III and Queen Camilla took to the throne in a new look Royal Household, they got the opportunity to review the list of warrant holders. This prestigious list is a mark of recognition assigned to companies who supply goods or services to the Royal Household. They can then use the coat of arms on their packaging, in their adverts and inevitably, they can charge more. So, if you’ve ever sat at home wondering what exactly the King and Queen drink, this is it!
This selection process is ongoing, and it’s believed that these latest warrants were actually decided upon when Charles was still the Prince of Wales – so more may be announced. Nonetheless, they are the first of the new reign so let’s take a look at the King and Queen’s favourite drinks!
Companies By Appointment to His Majesty The King
Berry Bros. & Rudd Ltd, London Wine and Spirit Merchants
Britain’s oldest, family-owned wine and spirits merchant, they’ve been trading since 1698 and provide a selection of drinks to the Royals.
Champagne Laurent-Perrier, France Purveyors of Champagne
One of the few Champagne houses that remain family-owned, the inclusion of Laurent-Perrier shows Charles’ focus on these types of business. It’s the only Champagne house with the warrant currently!
Corney & Barrow Ltd, London Wine Merchants
The exclusive UK supplier of the luxury Burgundy estate Domaine de la Romanée-Conti.
D. Johnston & Co. (Laphroaig) Ltd, Argyle Distiller & Supplier of Single Malt Scotch Whisky
If you’re ever invited into Buckingham Palace and order a Scotch, this’ll likely be it. They were first awarded the Royal Warrant in 1994 and have never fallen out of favour.
Shepherd Neame Limited, Kent Supplier of Specialist Orders
With the honour of being Britain’s oldest brewer, this is the only beer company on the list.
Waitrose Limited, Berkshire Grocer and Wine & Spirit Merchants
Officially the only supermarket, Waitrose has had Royal links for a while with their Duchy range.
Companies By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen
Camel Valley, Cornwall Purveyor of English Sparkling Wines
Representing the flourishing world of English sparkling wine is Camel Valley, the Cornwall-based family-run winery.
Corney & Barrow Ltd, London Wine Merchants
As seen above, it appears that Camilla is a fan of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti too.
There were 145 appointments in total across all kinds of products and services, so if you’re intrigued by which brands get signed, sealed and delivered to the Royal Household, and for more information about The Royal Warrant, click here.